Editor:

Hello, Clarendon!

I would like to explain why I am running and clarify my position on community issues.

I am running as a write-in candidate for town supervisor after concerns arose during the primary about my opponent and his wife Melissa Ierlan. I encourage voters to focus on facts, responsible use of public resources, and each candidate’s qualifications and character—not on personal favors or campaign rhetoric.

I also want to clarify statements about me circulating during the campaign.

Gun rights and community safety – I support the right to bear arms and am not seeking to take away residents’ rights to shoot firearms lawfully on their own property. I am a gun owner with a legal concealed-carry permit. I believe that exercising these rights also carries a responsibility to consider the safety and well-being of our neighbors.

Three years ago, I began working to help residents feel safe and at peace in their homes and community. This effort began during Dick Moy’s tenure as town supervisor. Mr. Moy arranged meetings with Sheriff Bourke and concerned community members, and our current town supervisor, Marc Major, has continued that work.

Because of my efforts to bring the community together I have become a lightning rod and now, my opponent, his family and friends new boogie man. Fred, it’s time to stand up and tell the community why you are running for our supervisor’s seat and what your plans are for our community. What are your plans to lower our property taxes.

I have already started looking into both. I know some in our community might not like what I propose, such as encouraging small businesses and new residents to join our community. I am also looking at hiring someone to look for state and federal grants that could take financial pressure off our community. That person will not be paid with our tax dollars. That person will be paid with my salary, paid for by the community.

At the board meetings I attended, I raised concerns about noise and unsafe conditions but did not initially raise firearm noise. That issue arose more recently when I learned of concerns about its impact on veterans living with PTSD. I believe those concerns deserve thoughtful consideration, and I support listening to the veterans who have served to protect our rights.

Personal character and respectful dialogue – I would like to address the characterization of me as an “angry lesbian.” My sexual orientation does not define my temperament or my qualifications to serve. I am not an angry or vindictive person by nature. Throughout my campaign, I have spoken with Democrats and Republicans, including longtime Republican voters who have told me they cannot support Fred Seeman. I believe our conversations should remain respectful and focused on the issues facing Clarendon.

My candidacy gives Clarendon residents a choice in this general election for town supervisor. I believe my actions demonstrate my commitment to our community. Voters deserve a campaign focused on constructive proposals rather than personal attacks.

During the primary, Fred Seeman spoke about transparency but did not attend a community question-and-answer session. He also discussed improving our infrastructure without explaining how those improvements would be funded. I believe residents deserve clear answers about these plans and their costs.

Your vote will affect everyone who calls Clarendon home. Please consider each candidate’s actions, qualifications, and plans, and make your voice heard.

Sincerely, your write-in candidate for town supervisor,

Kathy Harnischfeger

Clarendon

Editor:

I want to take a moment to share why Marlene Seielstad is someone I look up to and respect so much.

As a 16-year-old, I see Marlene as one of the biggest role models in my life. She is incredibly hardworking and puts 200% into everything she does. She is fair, knowledgeable, organized, and truly loves what she does. She makes people feel included, and she has taught me a lot just by being herself.

Now, I will be honest. Marlene can be tough, very assertive, and sometimes rub people the wrong way. She has high expectations and isn’t afraid to speak her mind. But one thing I have come to realize is that Marlene will never ask someone to do something she isn’t willing to do herself. If she expects something to be done right, she gets right in there with you and shows you how to do it. She doesn’t just tell people what to do; she leads by example. To me, that shows integrity and what real leadership looks like.

I think sometimes people see her toughness before they see how much she cares. She is a strong leader with a big heart, and she wants to see people succeed. I believe there is a lot to learn from someone who works hard, stands by her expectations, and is willing to put in the same effort she asks of others.

At 16, I know I still have a lot to learn, but I am thankful to have someone like Marlene to look up to. She has shown me that being a good leader isn’t always about making everyone happy. Sometimes it’s about doing what is right, working hard, and helping others along the way.

Sincerely,

Christina Zaidel

Middleport

Editor:

The Town of Shelby Board would like you to vote to make the town clerk and the town highway superintendent’s positions appointed by them, as opposed to the current process of electing them.

This proposal by the board stems from disagreements between the current board and the people currently holding those positions. It has absolutely nothing to do with their qualifications for the job or their accountability. True leadership on the board would be able to work with anyone in those positions.

But more important than that leadership issue, is the fact that the elected clerk and elected highway superintendent’s positions are the only checks and balances over the board itself.

The clerk is responsible for protecting the records of the town. If the board appoints the clerk, there is nothing to keep board members from accessing those records, or disposing of records they might not want preserved, without the clerk’s oversight.

The highway superintendent would become a board bobblehead if that position were appointed by the board. Without constructive conversation, and differences of opinion, creative solutions aren’t possible. If the board is unable to function with those differing opinions, then maybe they should not be board members.

Taking the choice away from the voters is never a good answer.

Respectfully,

Wendi Pencille

Shelby